Earlier this week I went to my local airport to have my TSA PreCheck interview so that I could receive my “Known Traveler Number” and always be able to use the expedited PreCheck security line at airports which have them. Up to now, since I’m a not-too-frequent flyer, I’ve queued up at the regular screening line or (more often) been given PreCheck status on my boarding pass from the airlines I most usually fly. As I’ve been hearing buzz that practice might be tightened up, I decided it was high time I went ahead and secured myself a place in the faster lane permanently.

I was nudged into the process also as word spread that the TSA is rolling out enhanced screening protocols for carry-on luggage at 10 airports around the country in a pilot program to improve screeners’ ability to quickly and accurately screen the contents of those bags. Although none of those airports is one I usually travel through, it would seem that if the new requirements prove effective for the screeners, the process will certainly spread to other locations. I’m all for improvements for the sake of better security, but if TSA PreCheck will also help me skirt potentially longer, slower lines, I’m all for that, too.

The process of enrolling is almost ridiculously easy and fast. One first fills out an application online (I think it took me perhaps 5 minutes), chooses a location and appointment time, and then goes there for a face-to-face interview and to pay the $85, five-year fee. For me, the issue up to now had been securing an appointment at a convenient location. The closest regular spot is some 70 miles from my home, so I hadn’t been in any hurry to go. Recently, however, a temporary office set up at the airport (which is less than 5 miles from my house), offering the appointments over the course of two- or three-week blocks at a time.

So it was that I found myself there this week. I was in and out in less than 10 minutes and even had my parking validated. I confirmed the answers to my online application, was digitally fingerprinted, had my ID checked (driver’s license and passport), confirmed my Social Security number, gave a credit card number for the $85 fee and was on my way.

I was given a website address on which I can check the status of my enrollment, and I should have my KTN within 60 days. Once I’ve got that, I’ll use it whenever I book a flight and have that magical “TSA PreCheck” affixed to all my boarding passes. What could be simpler?

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor